Mission Statement
The Calhoun Cupboard empowers our campus community by improving access to nutritious food and essential hygiene items. We fight food insecurity through education, advocacy, and distribution, fostering a supportive environment where our students and employees can thrive.
How to Access the Cupboard
Currently enrolled students and employees may request items from the Calhoun Cupboard twice per month. To request food or hygiene items, please submit a request form using the link below.
On Campus without Spare Change?
If you are on campus and hungry without the means to buy food, you may visit one of our “grab and go” locations listed below. These stations are typically stocked with snacks and microwaveable items.
Decatur Campus: MSA (building #14 on the campus map), first floor, Hawk’s Lounge
How You Can Help
- Monetary Donation: The Calhoun Cupboard has a Foundation account! You can make a one time donation, or employees can set up a payroll deduction for ongoing support. Please list the Calhoun Cupboard in the “department or program” description box.
- Amazon Wishlist: You can CLICK HERE to access our wishlist. It is updated on an ongoing basis with the most critical Cupboard needs.
- Drop Off Donations: Please contact Nicole Ricketts at (256) 306-2870 or nicole.ricketts@593c18ac56.nxcli.net to coordinate a donation drop-off if you have food or hygiene items to give to the Cupboard.
Items for Donation
We take donations of any shelf-stable items that are within expiration or best buy date on the package. Here are some commonly needed items:
Protein:
- canned tuna or chicken
- Vienna sausages
- protein bars
- peanut butter
- canned soups with meat options
- chilli
Canned Goods:
- green beans
- corn
- carrots
- potatoes
- diced tomatoes
- pasta sauce
- black beans
Pasta/Grains:
- rice (microwaveable or dry)
- noodles
- Ramen (packets and cups)
- Knorr Sides or Rice-a-Roni
- macaroni and cheese (boxes and cups)
- mashed potatoes (pouches and cups)
Microwaveable Food Options (for students to microwave and eat on campus):
- easy mac
- Chef Boyardee
- Dinty Moore meals
Snacks and Breakfast Items:
- oatmeal (packets only)
- breakfast or granola bars
- Pop-Tarts
- peanut butter or cheese crackers
- fruit snacks
- applesauce
- fruit cups
- pudding cups
- microwave popcorn
Basic Hygiene Items:
- toilet paper (4-packs only please)
- razors and shaving cream
- deodorant
- soap (bar and body wash)
- shampoo/conditioner
- lotion
- feminine hygiene products
- toothpaste/toothbrush/floss
Why It Matters
Research has shown that students experiencing food insecurity are more likely:
- to have a lower GPA
- to report indicators of stress and depression
- to have lower class attendance
Over the last year, the Calhoun Cupboard has assisted 334 students and their families through distribution of grocery and hygiene items donated by faculty and staff. By supporting the Calhoun Cupboard, you’re helping ensure that our students have access to the food they need to focus on their studies and succeed in school.
Have Questions?
Nicole Ricketts
Coordinator of Student Advocacy & Accountability
nicole.ricketts@593c18ac56.nxcli.net | 256-306-2870